Diana Bartlett
HURS CURATOR
DIANA BARTLETT
The Chinese-American photographer and Creative Director shares her favorite brands, products and places
Chinese-American photographer and Creative Director Diana Louise Bartlett is a polymath in every sense of the word. She’s worked across creative industries but is a photographer above all else. Her first photography book was published in 2022 – ‘L’Altra Gloria’ – a love letter to the Le Marche region in Italy. Celebrated for her distinctive aesthetic, Bartlett has become a trusted source for notable recommendations across travel, food, design, fashion and art. Through her curated take on culture, Bartlett has become a coveted collaborator. Recent partners and clients include CHANEL, Proenza Schouler and Byredo. In this week’s HUR Five newsletter Diana Louise Bartlett shares some of her favorite brands, products and places across fashion, design and art.
THIS BOOKSTORE CELEBRATES ART THROUGH PUBLISHING
Located in Le Marais, Yvon Lambert’s bookshop is a celebration of art through publishing. Founder Yvon Lambert was a gallerist and key figure in the art world who promoted the works of some of the most innovative artists. In 2014, Lambert closed his gallery to focus on his eponymous bookshop and publishing. The bookshop specializes in art books, exhibition catalogs and rare, out of print works. In addition to their extensive offering of books and other works, Lambert publishes projects with established and up-and-coming international artists.
“Going to Yvon Lambert is part of my Saturday stroll when I’m in Paris. I can find endless INSPIRATION through the images in their books. Spending an afternoon there feels like a warm and intellectual hug.”
“I grew up in California so Mexican FOOD is practically a part of my DNA. I love Mexico City and Contramar is always my first stop upon arriving. Long 3 hour lunches here turn into cocktail hour and into dinner as friends pass by and the table grows as the sunsets.”
A BELOVED SEAFOOD RESTAURANT IN MEXICO CITY
Chef Gabriela Cámara opened Contramar over 20 years ago. It all started with the idea of recreating the beachside restaurants she enjoyed as a child but adapted to the city through formal service and interior. Since then, Contramar has become a beloved institution in Mexico City. Known for its outstanding seafood, the restaurant is a favorite of locals and those passing through. It’s always packed, so book in advance. Durango 200, Colonia Roma
EILEEN GRAY’S LEGACY OF MODERNIST DESIGN
Villa E-1027 was designed by Irish architect and furniture designer Eileen Gray for, and with, Romanian architect Jean Badovici. Located in the seaside town Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, the villa is an icon of Modernist architecture. Unique for its time, Gray united architecture and decoration. Creating highly personalized furniture – 180 pieces to be exact – that fit the lifestyle of its residents. After a lengthy restoration, Villa E-1027 was reopened to the public in July 2021.
“The modernist villa designed by Eileen Gray in the south of France sits on one of the only ‘no frills’ beaches in the area. If I could build something in my dreams, this is what it would look like. Her furniture exhibited throughout the house was designed for her personal LEISURE and later became popularized and sold to the public. Her famous side table, E1027, was designed for the house with an adjustable height so it could hover over anything. I use mine in front of my bedside table to hold books and coffee. I reach to the side and in front of me, instead of behind. An unexplainable feeling of luxury and design.”
“One of the most beautiful CONTEMPORARY clothing stores. Barbara and Cathrine have a true understanding of everything that encompasses a good fashion brand. It’s as much about architecture, culture, food and music as it’s about material. We’re the same age and it’s beautiful to collaborate with them and watch them grow. I highly recommend the staple Salma jeans, the new season Elizabeth pants and their leather jackets.”
THIS DANISH FASHION HOUSE CELEBRATES WOMEN
Cathrine Saks and Barbara Potts are the founders behind Danish fashion house Saks Potts. Launched in 2014, the brand used to be known for its colorful outerwear but the brand has evolved hugely since then. Saks Potts provides a wardrobe for the modern woman, through their playful take on 90s minimalism – with Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy as their key muse. The brand’s personal and DIY approach to content has made them a unique player in a luxury industry where most choose to play it safe. Saks and Potts are known for including personal friends in campaigns and shows. Making it a brand that isn’t merely about products – it’s celebrating the women who wear it.
A RENOWNED HOTEL IN THE HEART OF POSITANO
Family-run hotel Le Sirenuse is a classic. The palazzo which houses the hotel has been passed down within the Serale family for generations. The central part of the hotel used to be the Sersale family’s seaside retreat, with several adjoining houses added to the estate later on. In 1951, four of the family’s siblings opened the house to guests. Le Sirenuse has expanded since then. The hotel features 58 rooms, with unique interiors carefully curated over time. The family has continuously collected special pieces of furniture and art, which are sprinkled throughout the hotel. Current owners Antonio and Carla Serale, continue the family tradition by inviting artists to make a site-specific piece yearly (including Stanley Whitney, Martin Creed and Matt Connors). If you’re unable to visit, you can always gift yourself a souvenir from Emporio Sirenuse, the hotel’s own clothing and tableware line.